'The labourers who mowed your fields...' Briefing paper on a church response to migrant workers

Aims

The Churches Regional Commission for Yorkshire and the Humber [CRC] provides information and resources to equip churches and faith practitioners for their role in regeneration of the region’s communities.

Methodology

The briefing paper introduces a Biblical background to hospitality and justice and outlines key issues relating to migrant worker employment. The paper outlines a definition of migrant workers; their rights and entitlements; discusses their contribution to the economy and vulnerability to exploitation; effects for public services; describes the Gangmasters Licensing Authority; and their contribution to churches. These issues are illustrated with case studies of work undertaken to welcome and support migrant workers. A list of ideas for what churches can do, useful organisations and resources are provided.